Today is the one-year anniversary of my stroke and I am feeling great!

In October 2020, I resigned from my position at the University of Arizona and went on long-term disability so I can focus on my rehabilitation.  I have improved so much in the past year going from full paralysis on my right side to using a wheelchair, then a walker, and progressing to only using a cane when I am outside.  My speech has improved although I still have problems finding the right words when conversing. The word finding is more difficult when I am on the phone and the person asks two or more questions at a time.  I struggle with answering the first question and having to think about the second at the same time.

 I am doing (beginner’s) yoga routinely to help with my range of motion, flexibility, and balance.  I use YouTube on the television so I can pause the session if I need extra time to change positons. It has really helped me get more comfortable getting up and down from the floor.   

I also enjoying cooking almost every night. We subscribe to a couple of meal services that provide all the fresh ingredients and easy to follow recipes.  I find that peeling and cutting the vegetables have helped my fine motor skills.  However, my gross motor skills (like stirring ingredients in a pan or flipping burgers) still need work and sometimes I make a real mess of the stovetop.

I am adjusting to my slower pace.  Karri and I will often walk up and down the block together.  She is very patient with me when we walk because I have to stop often (sometimes just to think about what I am going to say next). 

Thank you for all your kind thoughts, prayers and encouragement throughout my recovery and rehabilitation.  They mean so much to me and keep me motivated to improve.  I ask God to bless you all and to keep you safe and healthy!

With much love,

Ken